This expert is paving the way in breast cancer detection, prevention and treatment.
Medical Oncologist
Alliance Cancer Specialists
What new developments in breast cancer treatment are you excited about? There is now a large emphasis on specific targeted therapies for all stages of breast cancer which allows me to have an extremely personalized treatment approach for my patients. This optimizes outcomes and reduces toxicities. For example, a recent additional treatment option is the PARP inhibitor Olaparib, which extends disease-free survival in high-risk, early-stage breast cancer patients with germline BRCA1/2 mutations. The use of CD4/6 inhibitors in early and late stages of breast cancer is another exciting area. De-escalating axillary lymph nodal surgery continues to evolve and we are now using innovative ideas such as artificial intelligence in cancer diagnosis.
You’ve mentioned you prioritize treating the whole person-not just the disease. What does that look like in breast cancer care? Besides empowering patients with the knowledge about their diagnosis and therapy options, I try to inspire them to act courageously despite their fears around the diagnosis. I help patients maintain positive emotions and realistic optimism which makes them more resilient. I also encourage them to be involved in social and religious activities and indulge in their hobbies and interests.
Many cancer patients in Philadelphia experience health disparities. Do physicians
have a role in overcoming those disparities? One of the silver linings of the pandemic is the recognition and emphasis that has been made nationally on reducing global and local disparities in cancer care with an attempt to improve equity in health care. COVID has also taught us to be innovative in conducting clinical trials to include a larger proportion of diverse patients. I am very fortunate to have had the incredible experience of providing highquality breast cancer care to women and a few men across many races, ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds. This invaluable learning experience has broadened my vision and increased my passion for continued improvements in breast cancer care in all groups. Rapid access to care is another important way of overcoming health disparities.
What are some of those ways you advocate for patients? I explain to patients the course of their disease and the benefits of treatments in a way they understand. This allows for shared decision-making and helps alleviates their fear. I mobilize resources for supportive care, address psychosocial consequences, explain toxicities of therapies and maintain effective communication at all times. All in all, making care accessible to patients is most important. This includes access to telemedicine and providing resources to address the high cost of treatment. Partnering with local agencies can also be extremely useful.